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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2010 Lexus IS F

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2011 Lexus IS F

Overview

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2010 Lexus IS F Review

By KBB.com Editors

Recalibrate your image of Lexus. The 416-horsepower 2010 Lexus IS F, the fastest production Lexus ever, is the first Lexus to wear the brand's F performance badge designed to compete with the BMW M series, Mercedes-AMG and various aftermarket tuners. Coupled to the Lexus IS F's 5.0-liter V8 is an automatic transmission that upshifts in a race-car-like 0.1 second. Lexus says that many IS F buyers will have owned Japanese performance cars such as the Mitsubishi Evo, Subaru WRX STi and Toyota Supra Turbo.

You'll Like This Car If...

You'll love the IS F if you want to know (kind of) what it feels like to drive a race car and you don't mind spending time in traffic court. A better, safer and definitely wiser option: Explore the IS F's lofty limits at a car-club event at a race track.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you enjoy the comfortable, quiet ride of the ES 350 and think it's plenty powerful, the IS F is not for you. On uneven roads, the ride can be harsh, and its 19-inch-diameter super-low-profile tires and wheels may be susceptible to damage from potholes.

What's New for 2010

The IS-F receives an updated optional navigation system with Lexus' Enform Voice Command casual language recognition system and Bluetooth phonebook download. Also new for 2010 is a Torsen limited-slip differential, Safety Connect telematics system and a Premium Sound System with USB interface port, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and music streaming ability.

Driving the IS F

Driving Impressions When we pressed on the 2010 Lexus IS F's throttle, our first impression was that Lexus' claimed horsepower figures were more than a bit conservative. After two upshifts we were...

shattering the highest speed limit in the U.S. We didn't disarm the IS F's stability control for the curvy sections, but, unlike similar systems, it allowed very aggressive driving before it kicked in. With wider rear tires and 54 percent of its weight on the front wheels, the IS F can lose front grip first if you get into a corner too fast – but by that time you'll be going way too fast for public roads, anyway. On the other hand, that chassis behavior is ideal for overly aggressive street driving or track-day novices. On the whole, the ride comfort is perfectly acceptable on smooth roads, but – understandably, given the car's capabilities – not so terrific over uneven pavement.

Favorite Features

Eight-Speed Transmission
The 2010 Lexus IS F's eight-speed automatic allows anyone to shift almost as fast as a professional racer: Lexus says it's the world's fastest-shifting automatic. Upshifts take 0.1 seconds, while downshifts occur in 0.2 seconds and include an automatic throttle blip to match the speeds of the engine, transmission and drive wheels.

Paddle Shifters
In the transmission's manual mode, shifting is accomplished with Formula 1-style steering-wheel-mounted paddles. So that drivers can focus on the road, the car gives a single beep when it's about time to upshift. A double beep means the driver tried to downshift at too high a speed.

2010 Lexus IS F Details

Interior

Even passengers will notice they're in an IS F: The F symbol is everywhere. There's an F between the speedometer and tachometer, on the headrests, on the steering wheel, on the console, on the side of each seat and several more places. At speed, the IS F leather-trimmed seats provide excellent lateral support.

Exterior

It's not difficult to distinguish the 2010 Lexus IS F from its IS siblings. First, there's the "F" badging on front fenders and trunk. Next are wider fenders to accommodate wider tires, vents behind the front wheels to reduce aerodynamic lift at high speed and a larger rear spoiler to help keep the rear tires planted to the pavement. Also, the IS F gets its own grille with a wider opening to help cool the V8. To accommodate the larger engine, the hood has a raised center section. Brake cooling ducts are located next to the foglamps. In the rear are quad exhaust outlets.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

If you build a car capable of 170 miles per hour (and more without its electronic speed limiter), you'd better be able to get it slowed down in a hurry. Lexus had Brembo build extra-large brakes and BBS produce 19-inch wheels to accept them. The front vented and drilled brake discs are 14.2 inches in diameter and surrounded by six-piston aluminum brake calipers. On the rear are two-piston calipers on 13.6-inch rotors.

Optional Equipment

Among the few options available on the 2010 Lexus IS F is a 300-watt sound system with 14 speakers and a six-disc in-dash DVD/CD changer. Those who park their IS F in tight places will want the backup video camera and the sonar-based system that warns of unseen objects. Other options include a DVD-based navigation system and a Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

Under the Hood

For the IS F, Lexus replaces the IS 350's 306-horsepower V6 with an enhanced version of the 4.6-liter V8 used in the LS and GS. To bump horsepower to 416, Lexus engineers added, among other things, electrically (rather than the common hydraulically) controlled variable intake valve timing. This feature is maximized with titanium intake valves, which are lighter and stronger than steel. Also, maximum engine speed was upped from 6,500 to 6,800 rpm. Torque is down 14 pound-feet and occurs 1,200 rpm higher than in the LS 600h L. The eight-speed automatic, based on that in the LS 460, upshifts only about 0.05-second slower than that of a Formula 1 car. Traction and stability control can be adjusted to allow for a more dynamic drive with the touch of the "Sport" mode switch on the dash, or the system can be disarmed completely.

5.0-liter V8
416 horsepower @ 6600 rpm
371 lb.-ft. @ 5200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/23

To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Lexus IS F vehicles for sale near you.

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2010 Lexus IS F Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.1

Out of 10

Based on 355 Ratings for the 2006 - 2014 models.

Review this car

Value

9.1/10

Quality

9.4/10
Reliability

9.5/10

Performance

9.2/10
Comfort

9.1/10

Styling

9.5/10

2011 IS250 F-Sport RWD w/Nav

By Ray (FL) on Thursday, May 23, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 17,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Resale value, good looking interior and exterior"

Cons: "By-the-book maintanence is high, small backseat"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"The F-Sport model handles very well at high speeds when compared to my previous 2009 IS250. The steering is phenomenal. The interior looks and feels solid. Front seats are definitely an upgrade from the base IS. The F-Sport suspension is tighter and more responsive to quick turns. In terms of acceleration the 2.5L engine does not impress much, but it does the job when passing is necessary and gas mileage is great. The Nav System is a must, not only does it make driving much easier, it cleans up the dash to look much better as well(back-up camera is great too). The maintanence costs can add up, which is why I stick to the basics (oil change, air filters, pump premium fuel, and inspect tire pressure to avoid premature tread wear). I always hear IS drivers complain about tires wearing prematurely, but most likely that is due to neglecting the tire pressure monitor. Driving around with low pressure for 1000 miles will easily take an additional 1000 miles off the life of the tread. At 17,000 miles my tires still look great all around. Why did I buy this car for a second time? For the money, this is one of the best cars out there. I really liked the F-sport Package(black headliner, sport seats, rims, steering, suspension, aero package). Mercedes quality does not match(owned a C-class before the 2009 IS250). BMW styling is dull(inside and out, my brother drives 4-door 335i and he loves my car). Drawbacks: The backseat is small, but if you treat it as a 4-seater you should be fine. No need to do everything the dealer suggests unless you plan to own long-term(5+ years)."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Love it except for maintenance costs

By Lori (AR) on Monday, May 20, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 61,000

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 7/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Great gas mileage; sharp exterior; reliable"

Cons: "High maintenance costs, especially for tires"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I have the 2008 IS 250. I love everything about this car EXCEPT for the high maintenance costs. It requires new tires every 2 years, and I am a very conservative driver. The routine maintenace at the Lexus dealership isn't cheap either. I prefer smaller zippy cars so this one fits me perfectly. Yes, it has a bumpier ride than other similar sedans, but that is in large part due to the low profile tires. I get great gas mileage: 29-30 MPG in town; even higher on the highway. And let's face it, the car is just a good looking car, both inside and out. I get lots of compliments about it. I also take very good care of my car, so even though it's 5 years old, people tell me it looks brand new. Will I purchase another Lexus? Not sure right now. The high maintenance costs will really make me stop and think about it when the time comes. If you are looking to purchase an IS, just be aware of the costs involved. Other than that downside, I absolutely love mine. Since it's paid for, I'm still far better off keeping it a little longer than to trade in for a lower maintenance, lower cost car."

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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I love this car

By Les (FL) on Wednesday, May 01, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 55,599

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 8/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"It's handles like a sports car, has plenty of horsepower but is comfortable, good on gas and has all the bells and whistles. At 5 years old it still drives like new."

4 people out of 4 found this review helpful

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I love my car!

By Sadie (AR) on Wednesday, April 17, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 68,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Comfort, stereo, smooth ride, cheap maintenance"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have had my car for over a year and I love it. I haven't had any issues with it and I haven't regretted my purchase one time. If I were to get a new car I would definitely consider buying another IS, but maybe a 350 instead for added pep. I would buy this car over my previous 3-series BMW for sure. Love the cheap maintenance in comparison and how smooth the ride is. I love everything about this car!"

7 people out of 7 found this review helpful

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Smooth ride - decent mileage

By Tallguy (FL) on Sunday, April 14, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 50,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 7/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Styling: 6/10
Comfort: 7/10

Pros: "Clean lines, beautiful design, good quality"

Cons: "Tight back seat, large blind-spot"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I sold my Infiniti G35 for the IS250. So far so good. Tight steering radius, smooth ride, easy to find controls, decent mileage (26mpg Hwy - 22mpg City)."

5 people out of 5 found this review helpful

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Can't stop driving it, it's a great sized limo

By Guzeman (NV) on Tuesday, April 02, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 28,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Everything is top shelf, navigation, keyless entry, wireless pandora, seats are beautiful and great long distance plus 32 mpg driving 322 miles to San Diego. Sold my diesel problematic BMW and never missed it with this Lexus."

4 people out of 5 found this review helpful

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See all 355 reviews